Senator Charles Schwertner, MD represents Senate District 5 in Texas, a position he has held since 2013. A sixth-generation Texan and lifelong conservative Republican, he resides in Georgetown with his wife, Belinda, who is a physician and holds a law degree. They have three adult sons: Carson, Zachary, and Matthew.
In the Texas Senate, Schwertner chairs the influential Business and Commerce Committee and the Sunset Advisory Commission. These roles place him at the forefront of significant discussions involving electric utilities, insurance, banking, technology, and telecommunications within the state. As a member of the Finance Committee, State Affairs Committee, and the Legislative Budget Board, Schwertner engages with a wide range of legislative priorities.
Throughout his legislative career, Schwertner has sponsored and co-sponsored a number of notable bills aimed at enhancing various dimensions of life in Texas. He authored one of the nation's strongest Constitutional Carry laws, which reflects a commitment to the Second Amendment and gun ownership rights. He has also been instrumental in reforming Texas's electric grid, a critical initiative aimed at preventing outages and improving efficiency in the wake of recent crises.
Schwertner actively participates in shaping health care policy as the chair of the Health and Human Services Committee. Under his leadership, the committee has focused on improving mental health services, access to care, and safeguarding vulnerable populations such as seniors in the foster care system. This commitment is evident in his support for bills like HB3287, aimed at expanding the geographic reach of the Texas State Technical College System, which is designed to enhance educational opportunities for Texans.
Schwertner's political leanings are firmly rooted in conservative values, illustrated by his advocacy for reducing taxes for small businesses and his work to strengthen landowner rights. He has sponsored resolutions that recognize the contributions of community leaders and has supported public safety initiatives addressing issues such as border security. For instance, the SR678 resolution requests Congress to reimburse Texas for funds used to secure the southern border—a reflection of his focus on both fiscal responsibility and securing the state's borders.
As a member of various committees, such as the Intergovernmental Relations Committee and the Criminal Justice Committee, Schwertner has worked collaboratively across party lines, often endorsing measures aimed at enhancing governmental efficiency and tackling crime. His involvement in issues ranging from environmental regulation to the management of public services highlights a broader vision towards judicious governance and legislative efficiency.
In summary, Senator Schwertner's legislative activities underscore a commitment to traditional conservative principles while actively addressing contemporary issues affecting Texan constituents. His policy focus encompasses a diverse set of priorities, aiming to foster economic growth, ensure public safety, and improve health outcomes for all Texans.